President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, describing the late Pontiff as “a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions around the world.”
In a personal statement issued on Monday, Tinubu said the Pope’s death—just a day after Easter Sunday—marked a sacred return to his Maker at a time of spiritual renewal for Christians.
“Today, with a heavy heart, I join the Catholic faithful and Christians worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis,” the President said. “He served the Church and the Master of the Church until the end.”
Tinubu praised Pope Francis’s legacy of compassion, justice, and environmental advocacy. Recalling the Pope’s historic papacy since 2013, Tinubu noted his message of mercy and dedication to the marginalized, refugees, and the poor. “He built bridges between faiths, between the rich and the poor, and consistently advocated for the developing world,” he added.
Highlighting the Pope’s theological impact, Tinubu said Francis’s encyclicals were both “doctrinal and timely,” offering spiritual clarity amid global crises.
Referencing his 2025 Easter message, Tinubu recalled watching the Pope deliver his traditional blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica, noting, “Alas, the Lord called him home a day after, making the world lose its most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change.”
On behalf of the Federal Government and the Nigerian people, Tinubu extended condolences to the Catholic Church and Christian community, praying, “May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest.”
